Movable Storage Unit Design for Tool-Free Access and Secure Connection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing storage devices for consumer goods, particularly in household settings, lack ease of use and flexibility, requiring tools for detachment and optimal positioning, which complicates access and storage operations.

Innovation Solution

A storage device design featuring a detachable storage unit with a plate-shaped base and guide units that allow for partial displacement relative to the carrier unit, enabling tool-free connection and disconnection, and featuring stabilizing elements to prevent tilting and ensure secure operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the storage unit is detachably connected to the carrier unit using hooking into place, then the connection is secure and stable, but the operator must always connect the storage unit in an optimal position and can only remove it completely

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection stabilityVSAvoidaccess convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The storage unit is designed to be movable relative to the carrier unit along a guide unit, transitioning between a stowed position (partially removed) and a removed position (fully detached). This dynamic positioning system allows the storage unit to maintain secure connection when needed while enabling easy partial access without complete removal

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The connection system is segmented into guide units that enable controlled movement along the carrier unit. The guide unit divides the connection space into zones that allow partial removal while maintaining attachment, separating the functions of secure storage and easy access

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If the storage unit is completely removed from the carrier unit, then full access to stored goods is achieved, but the operation becomes cumbersome and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccess convenienceVSAvoidoperation time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The storage unit can be partially removed along the guide unit to provide sufficient access to stored goods without requiring complete detachment. This partial action principle allows users to retrieve items near the opening by pulling the storage unit partially outward, eliminating the need for time-consuming complete removal and reattachment operations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Ease of operation

If the storage unit is designed for tool-free detachment, then ease of operation is improved, but connection stability may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetachment simplicityVSAvoidconnection security
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The guide unit acts as an intermediary mechanism between the storage unit and carrier unit. It provides a structured path for tool-free movement while maintaining controlled engagement through guide elements that ensure stable connection during both attachment and partial removal operations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP3384809B1Storage device
Publication Date: 2019.12.18 WELLE MICHAEL
  • EP3384809B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3384809B1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP3384809B1 patent drawingFigure 4~5

AI summary

The invention is based on a storage device with at least one carrier unit (12a-d) and with at least one storage unit (14a-d) which is used to receive and/or store consumer goods (16a-d) in at least one receiving area (18a-d ) is provided and is detachably connected on one side to the carrier unit (12a-d) in at least one state of use. In order to provide a generic device with improved properties in terms of ease of use, it is proposed that the storage unit (14a-d) be displaceable relative to the carrier unit (12a-d).